“As most Americans know, we live in an age when it’s not a matter of if, but when you will become a victim of identity theft” - FTC Chairwoman Edith Ramirez Feb 2016
Top Tips For Preventing Identity Theft
- Add antivirus protection to your smart phone
- Add a password or thumb print to your phone. Have the phone lock if idle for more than a few minutes
- Make sure all browsers, operating systems, antivirus software, Java, Flash readers are all updated (Patch regularly)
- Use strong passwords and change frequently. If possible use two factor authentication
- Don’t open emails or files from people you don’t know
- Don’t open emails from banks (login to your account if you want to see the message)
- Do not reply to any emails that ask for personal information
- Do not use public Wi-Fi for browsing
- Set browser to browse in “private” mode
Credit Monitoring and Identity Theft Resolution
There are many companies that for an annual fee will monitor your credit for irregularities and in the event your identity is stolen provide you a dedicated specialist who will facilitate the resolution of virtually any identity-related problem. Below are two reputable firms that we are familiar with.
ID Resolution www.idresolution.net 877-308-9167
Life Lock www.lifelock.com 800-416-0599